Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat confirms that schools across the province will remain open despite worsening smog and rumours of closures.

Punjab Schools to Remain Open Despite Smog, Minister Confirms

Punjab Government Rules Out Province-Wide School Closures Over Smog Concerns

By News Desk On Nov 12, 2026

LAHORE: (News Desk) – Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has dismissed reports suggesting that schools across the province would be closed due to smog, confirming that all educational institutions will continue operating according to their regular schedules.

In a clarification posted on social media platform X, the minister said schools across Punjab remained open and urged parents, students and the public not to believe unverified reports circulating online.

The statement came amid growing concerns over deteriorating air quality and worsening smog in Lahore and several other parts of Punjab, which had triggered speculation about possible school closures and changes to school timings.

The provincial government has not approved any province-wide closure or additional school holidays in response to the smog situation. Officials have also ruled out proposals to shut educational institutions as part of the ongoing anti-smog measures.

Rana Sikandar Hayat urged students to follow the prescribed standard operating procedures (SOPs) and wear face masks to protect themselves from the harmful effects of smog.